Namaskara – Greetings from Kochi, the gateway to the God’s own country, Kerala!

Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, one of our team members will personally welcome you and escort you to your private transportation for a comfortable ride to your accommodation.

Meals:   – | – | –
Accommodation:  Flora Airport Hotel

We will meet at the breakfast at 9 a.m. We’ll begin our culinary adventure by travelling in our private vehicle, which we will have for the entire trip. After a scenic four-hour drive, we will arrive in Kozhikode and check into our hotel. Take some time to relax before exploring this charming town during our four-night stay.

Kozhikode, often referred to as Calicut is a town that beckons travellers with its rich tapestry of culture, architecture, and culinary treasures. The town’s architecture beautifully weaves together its colonial history with indigenous influences, evident in its quaint Portuguese and British-era buildings alongside traditional Malabar-style structures. Kozhikode’s cuisine, deeply rooted in its Mappila traditions, is a gastronomic delight, boasting aromatic biryanis, spicy curries, and delectable seafood dishes. The bustling markets of Kozhikode are a sensory overload, offering a vibrant array of spices, dried fish, textiles, and handicrafts. As for culture, Kozhikode is a melting pot where diverse communities harmoniously coexist, making it a cultural crossroads enriched by the flavours, traditions, and hospitality of its people. This town invites you to explore its historic charm, savour its tantalising dishes, haggle in its bustling markets, and immerse yourself in its captivating culture.

During our stay in Kozhikode, we will have the pleasure of being hosted by Abida Rasheed, a renowned consultant chef for prominent hotels, a YouTube sensation, and a close friend of Joji. She is also known as the queen of Mapilla Cuisine, and her culinary creations are exceptionally unique. Abida will show us around the local market, introduce us to some of her favourite recipes, and guide us through the culturally rich and beautiful region of Kerala. This is an experience that you will cherish forever!

Meals:   B | L(2) | –
Accommodation:  The Raviz Calicut

Kochi, often referred to as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea,” is a captivating city where a medley of influences converges. This coastal gem bears witness to the Portuguese, Dutch, Jewish, and Chinese footprints, each leaving an indelible mark on its culture and cuisine. As you embark on this leg of your journey, be prepared to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other.

In Kochi, your taste buds will be treated to the exquisite flavours of Syrian Christian cuisine, a culinary tradition renowned for its opulent use of coconut milk, the fragrance of curry leaves, and the bounty of seafood from the Arabian Sea. These ingredients come together harmoniously, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

While in Kochi, our exploration extends beyond the culinary realm. You’ll step into the historic precincts of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, where the remnants of the spice trade era stand as a testament to the city’s storied past. The air is thick with nostalgia as you stroll through these charming streets, breathing in the whispers of centuries-old stories.

But the adventure doesn’t end there. We’ll hop aboard a local commuter ferry, sailing across the serene waters to Neema’s traditional home. Here, you’ll be immersed in the heart of local Christian cuisine. Neema, a culinary virtuoso, will generously share her culinary heritage, offering a deeper understanding of the flavours, traditions, and techniques that have been passed down through generations.

In Kochi, history, culture, and cuisine intertwine seamlessly, creating an experience that is as enriching as it is flavorful. It’s a city that invites you to savour every moment and discover the secrets that have shaped its unique identity. As you walk its vibrant streets and taste its delectable dishes, you’ll understand why Kochi is a place where heritage truly meets the sea.

Meals:   B | L(1) | –
Accommodation:  The Dutch Bungalow, Fort Kochi

**Overnight Houseboat Cruise: A Tranquil Backwater Escape in Alappuzha, Kerala**

Embark on an enchanting Overnight Houseboat Cruise in Alappuzha, Kerala, often referred to as the “Venice of the East.” Step aboard a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat and set sail through serene backwaters that wind past emerald landscapes of swaying palm trees and endless paddy fields. As you drift along, immerse yourself in the unhurried village life, observing daily routines and age-old traditions.

Savour the distinctive flavours of Kuttanad cuisine, where locally sourced ingredients like duck, fish, tapioca, toddy, and banana take centre stage. As the sun dips below the horizon, your houseboat will anchor for the night, creating a magical setting where starlit waters mirror the sky. Enjoy a delectable onboard meal before drifting into a restful sleep in your cosy cabin.

Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature and witness the sunrise over the backwaters. After a traditional breakfast onboard, disembark for a leisurely stroll along the paddy fields, absorbing the tranquillity and natural beauty that surrounds you. This Overnight Houseboat Cruise offers more than just a journey; it’s an immersive experience into the heart of Kerala’s serene backwaters, leaving you with cherished memories of a timeless escape.

Meals:   B | L | D
Accommodation:  Houseboat

The final leg of our journey unfolds at Marari Beach, a pristine haven nestled between sun-kissed shores and swaying palms. Here, you’ll indulge in the coastal flavours of the local fishing community, a cuisine as diverse as the tides. Besides the culinary wonders, Marari Beach offers moments of tranquil respite by the sea. Optional activities like yoga, Ayurveda, and traditional fishing experiences allow you to connect with the coastal culture.

Meals:   B | L(1) | –
Accommodation:  Abad Turtle Beach

We have reached the end of our ‘Malabar Coast Culinary Odyssey’. We sincerely hope that you have enjoyed your journey with us. It brings us great joy to know that you have chosen to travel with us and allowed us to introduce you to the serene pleasures of South India.

This is not merely a culinary expedition but a soul-stirring encounter with Kerala’s multifaceted flavours and culture, leaving indelible imprints of wonder and enchantment. Join us on this extraordinary odyssey, and let Kerala’s rich tapestry of experiences captivate your senses and spirit.

We offer an inclusive airport transfer service to Kochi International Airport for those returning home today. We eagerly await your return for another exhilarating ATI Travel experience. Namaskaram!

TOUR EXTENSION
Our team would love to assist guests who have opted to continue their tour to a beach or hill station by accompanying them to their next destination. We offer two tour extension options:
Post-tour Extention 1 – (4N/5D) Hill Station, Western Ghats & Tribal experience (Coast to Hills Food Tour from NZ$2875)
Tour Extention 2 – (6N/7D) Heritage train journey, hills, tribes and village experience

If you haven’t yet booked your tour extension, kindly get in touch with us for more details.

Meals:   B | – | –